Executive Summary
- Prince George RCMP determined a fire on the 1500 block of Queensway was caused by arson.
- Cody Allen Stovin, 41, was arrested and faces multiple unauthorized firearms charges.
- Police describe the investigation as complex and are appealing for additional witnesses.
Prince George RCMP have confirmed that a fire damaging an apartment building on the 1500 block of Queensway on Thursday, December 4, was the result of arson. Investigators have arrested one individual in connection with the incident, though the investigation remains active as authorities work to piece together the events leading up to the blaze.
According to Prince George RCMP Cpl. Jennifer Cooper, the circumstances surrounding the fire are multifaceted. "While one man was arrested in connection with this investigation, the details are complex and police are still working to determine the exact details of what occurred that morning," Cooper stated in a press release.
Law enforcement officials identified the arrested individual as 41-year-old Prince George resident Cody Allen Stovin. Following his arrest on Friday, Stovin was remanded in custody pending his next court appearance. Court filings indicate that Stovin faces charges including possession of a firearm knowing its possession is unauthorized, carrying a concealed weapon, and careless transportation of a firearm.
Investigators are urging members of the public who may have witnessed the event or have relevant information to come forward. The Prince George RCMP have requested that anyone who has not yet spoken with investigators regarding the fire contact their non-emergency line at 250-561-3300.
Investigative Outlook
The determination of arson escalates the severity of the case from a structural fire inquiry to a criminal investigation. While Stovin has been arrested in connection with the investigation, the current charges cited are specific to firearms offenses rather than direct arson counts. This suggests that investigators are utilizing available evidence to hold the suspect in custody while forensic analysis of the fire scene continues. The complexity noted by law enforcement likely refers to the need to scientifically link the suspect to the ignition of the fire or to identify potential accomplices. It is important to note that all individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
